Which of the following is NOT listed as a risk factor for subarachnoid hemorrhage?

• A. Regular exercise
• B. Hypertension
• C. Smoking
• D. Pregnancy

Answer: (A)

Subarachnoid hemorrhage risk is driven by factors that stress or damage cerebral vessels and raise the chance that an aneurysm will rupture. Regular exercise is not a risk factor; it actually helps protect the heart and blood vessels by lowering blood pressure and improving vascular health. Hypertension increases the constant stress on vessel walls, making rupture more likely. Smoking damages the vessel walls and is a well-established modifiable risk factor for aneurysm formation and rupture. Pregnancy involves physiological changes—such as increased blood volume and hormonal influences—that can affect vessel integrity and, in some contexts, related rupture risk. Because regular exercise does not contribute to risk and is protective, it’s the option that is not listed as a risk factor.